Are Energy Drinks Bad for You?

What Is in the Can? 

Kristina Hagerman

While energy drinks are loaded with caffeine, they also boast other ingredients like taurine (an amino acid) and herbal extracts including ginseng and guarana. These ingredients offer some health advantages, such as benefits for the brain and heart, improved energy and focus, or antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, according to an article in the Cleveland Clinic that looks at the health effects of energy drinks. However, according to registered dietitian Amber Sommer, RD, LD, in the Cleveland Clinic article, combining them with the high caffeine content and added sugars in energy drinks can create potential health risks. 

Energy Drinks Can Improve Brain Function 

People reach for energy drinks for several reasons, with enhanced mental alertness being a top contender. But does science truly back this claim? 

Studies by the University of the West of England suggest that the caffeine in energy drinks may improve brain function metrics like memory, focus and reaction time, and even reduce mental fatigue. Notably, one study even found that a single 8.4-ounce can of Red Bull enhanced concentration and memory by around 24%. 

According to the studies, while some researchers believe caffeine alone is responsible for this cognitive boost, others posit that the synergy between caffeine and sugar in energy drinks might be key to maximizing the benefit. 

Health risks of energy drinks 

According to the CDC, energy drinks can pose several health risks, particularly for adolescents. It is reported that 30%–50% of adolescents consume energy drinks. A concerning statistic shows that in 2011 alone, nearly 1,500 adolescents aged 12-17 required emergency room treatment due to complications from energy drinks. The potential dangers include dehydration, heart complications like irregular heartbeat or even heart failure, anxiety leading to nervousness and jitters, and insomnia causing difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. Considering these risks, it’s important to be mindful of energy drink consumption, especially for younger individuals. 

Mixing energy drinks with alcohol 

Sommer, a registered dietitian, emphasizes the dangers of mixing alcohol with energy drinks. “Mixing alcohol with an energy drink is a really bad idea,” she stressed. “The invigorating effects of the energy drink can mask the intoxicating effects of alcohol, so you don’t feel how drunk you’re getting.” This creates a deceptive combination. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people who combine alcohol and energy drinks are four times more likely to binge drink compared to those who do not. Additionally, they are at a higher risk for engaging in unsafe sexual activity, driving under the influence (either as the driver or passenger) and sustaining injuries. 

Sommer also raised the concern of dehydration. “Caffeine acts as a diuretic, increasing your risk of dehydration,” she said. This makes it even more crucial to stay hydrated by consuming plenty of water and non-caffeinated beverages.” 

Finally, she highlighted how the pleasant taste of energy drinks can lead to quicker consumption compared to coffee, which is typically sipped more slowly. This can intensify the drink’s effects. 

Alternatives to energy drinks 

Forget the “healthy” energy drinks – they are often loaded with hidden additives and may not keep their promises.  

 The short-lived energy boost from these drinks often comes with a crash later. Instead the Cleveland Clinic recommends these natural alternatives for a sustainable pick-me-up: 

Natural alternatives like water, sleep, a balanced diet and exercise can provide a more sustainable and healthy way to manage your energy levels, the article states. If you choose to consume energy drinks, do so in moderation and be mindful of potential interactions with medications or underlying health conditions. Consult your doctor if you have any concerns. 

Kristina Hagerman is a graduate student in the public relations program at the Newhouse School.